Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

“A haven in so many ways!”

A beautiful hotel, with excellent service. From the moment we checked-in - with a refreshing and delicious welcoming drink everything was perfect. The trails are varied and well sign posted. The viewing platform is great and fruit is put out to entice exciting birds and wildlife. The nest ... more

A beautiful hotel, with excellent service. From the moment we checked-in - with a refreshing and delicious welcoming drink everything was perfect. The trails are varied and well sign posted. The viewing platform is great and fruit is put out to entice exciting birds and wildlife. The nest at 28m tall gives a fabulous 360 view. The pool and jacuzzi are a welcome haven after a day of exploring. Bearing in mind you are a "captive audience" for dinner the prices are fair with a good variety of options as is the wine. The Team looking after the rooms were excellent and the cleverly folded towels a lovely touch! We were warned that the driveway is a challenge and were relieved we had hired a 4x4, which we would recommend.

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“A Bit of a Drive From San Jose Airport, But SO WORTH IT!”

O.M.G.! Arenal volcano lodge delivered all we hoped for. Monkeys swinging in trees outside our balcony, woke up to the amazing growls of a Howler Monkey our second morning, and sat on our balcony and in the restaurant enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal volcano. Small steam clouds wmerging f... more

O.M.G.! Arenal volcano lodge delivered all we hoped for. Monkeys swinging in trees outside our balcony, woke up to the amazing growls of a Howler Monkey our second morning, and sat on our balcony and in the restaurant enjoying breathtaking views of Arenal volcano. Small steam clouds wmerging from both Arenal peaks lent a bit of "what if..." to the stay. But Arenal is asleep (for now).

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“Fantastic Staff and Scenery”

Highest compliments to the staff for being kind, accommodating, friendly, and helpful. They took time to learn my name, and authentically engaged with me. I had an unexpected issue with my knee so wore a brace and used poles to help me walk more securely. The staff helped in any way they could, w... more

Highest compliments to the staff for being kind, accommodating, friendly, and helpful. They took time to learn my name, and authentically engaged with me. I had an unexpected issue with my knee so wore a brace and used poles to help me walk more securely. The staff helped in any way they could, without being overbearing. I stayed in the beautiful Smithsonian Room the first night, then the Casona Lodge for 4 nights. I still have two nights to stay but so far it is quiet, despite the shared space. I booked in January and the private rooms were booked for my time period, so be sure to book early. The Smithsonian overlooks the garden and I saw hummingbirds and toucans from the patio outside my room. The gardens and nature are varied and beautiful. All the walkways, restrooms, and facilities are well maintained and clean. They offer complimentary transportation as the property is very spread out. Each time I called the van arrived within 8 minutes or less. The food is varied, and very good. I set up some off-site tours in advance and reception assisted when I needed to make changes. The pool is in a beautiful setting. The bird watching, night walk, and other tours onsite were excellent - let by knowledgeable and helpful guides. I highly recommend staying at the Arenal Observatory Lodge and Trails.

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